12 Best Cars Under 30k - Volkswagen GTI

The average price of a new car is fast approaching the $30,000 mark. But the entries that make up this list are anything but average.

Extremists need not apply, but for your average, everyday enthusiasts, the Volkswagen GTI is a perfectly balanced package of comfort and performance — and a stellar deal for under $30K.

Our GTI came equipped with a navigation system, VW's Package 1 (includes a sunroof, XM satellite radio and Interlagos cloth seats), 18-in. sport wheels/tires, and a 6-speed DSG transmission, bumping it closer to our cut-off point but ensuring a nice, up-market vehicle environment. Volkswagen's attention to detail shows with a flat-bottom steering wheel as visually appealing as it is tactilely pleasing and ergonomic. Trendy plaid-insert seats provide good support throughout and are certainly a cool detail and, as one editor put it, "a nice ode to the original."

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Through the autocross, the GTI's normally acclaimed DSG transmission was not so heavily praised. "DSG is a plus on a racetrack, but around this tight course, I was never sure if I was in the right gear," said one staffer, while others shared similar complaints, mainly due to its inability to hold a gear — good thing a 6-speed manual is still standard.

On the road, though, the DSG made for effortlessly quick gear changes toggling between auto and manual modes depending on the driver's manipulation of the steering-wheel paddles and throttle pedal. And with a knock-out combination of the turbocharged 2.0-liter's abundant torque, sporty but supple suspension, and practical interior space, it's no mystery as to why we were all reaching for the GTI keys for the weekend. — Jonathan Elfalan

And the winner is... It was a close decision, but the Nissan 350Z won by a whisker over the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution RS, with the Ford Mustang GT landing on the remaining step of our podium in a very respectable third. Nissan's sporty coupe, despite getting on in years, still impresses with its fine handling, rigid structure, free-revving engine and impressive brakes.

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Road & Track participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.